Codependence is a word to describe both a couple and addiction within a couple. A couple can be codependent without substance dependence. Addiction codependence does not have to be a spouse or partner; it can be a family member or friend.
But what exactly is codependency?
Codependency defined
When it involves relationships, only it is defined as an emotional and behavioral disorder that stops a person from living a healthy, productive life and experiencing mutually-satisfying relationships. The reason for that is because the partnership is one-sided, emotionally destructive, and abusive.
In a broader sense, codependency is seen with an addict who relies on another person to provide his or her shelter, food, and money for the substance to which they are addicted.
For example, it is the couple who are so invested in one another that they can no longer function independently. People will often say that they are a dysfunctional or codependent couple, without realizing that they are correct in the most real sense of the term.
Signs of codependence
How can you determine if you or someone you know is codependent? Here are six questions you can ask to determine if someone may be codependent.
- Does your sense of reason involve giving up your own needs to satisfy your partner’s needs?
- It is impossible to say no to your partner, no matter what the partner wants?
- Are you making excuses for your partner’s addiction or bad behavior?
- Are you worried about what others think of you?
- Do you feel you are trapped in the relationship
- Do you keep your mouth closed to prevent arguments?
- Does your partner make all the decisions in the relationship
Other signs of difficulty include
- Recognizing your feelings
- Trouble conversing in a relationship
- Have poor self-esteem
- Fear of abandonment
- Compulsively need praise
All of the above are signs of dysfunction and codependency.
The issue is codependency, and addiction often goes hand in hand. You can get help by addressing the addiction and the codependence issue if you or someone you know is in a codependent relationship and is also an addict.
A recovery center for addiction may help you with both at one time, if not do the recovery center for the addiction first, and right after that, get into counseling for the codependency issues.
Working with a counselor will help you understand and rebuild your self-esteem. Work on connecting with your family and former friends again, and of course, make time for you. Your time can encompass things you used to like: music, hiking, painting, and whatever you used to enjoy.
449 Recovery offers a detox program that is continuously monitored, counseling individuals, groups, and family and teaches you the skills you need to reduce the risk of relapse. You can begin healing with our therapies and continue that healing after leaving the recovery center. Call us today (855) 435-7449 to learn more about the programs we offer for addiction and codependency.